FCCPC Raids and Seals Abuja Visa Support Office Over Alleged Fraud, Assault on Officers
In a dramatic move that has sent shockwaves through the visa support industry, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has raided and sealed the Abuja office of Contact Tele-performance Company (TLS) over allegations of consumer rights violations and physical assault on security and enforcement officers.
Leading the operation was Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, Director of Surveillance and Investigations at the FCCPC, who said the commission acted after months of unresolved complaints and outright defiance by the company. According to Adeyinka, the situation spiraled out of control when TLS staff allegedly assaulted FCCPC operatives and police officers during lawful enforcement activities.
“This is not just about poor service,” she said. “This is about blatant disregard for Nigerian laws, consumers’ rights, and even the physical safety of government officers.”
The controversy began in March 2025 when Nigerian consumers lodged complaints that TLS, a private company contracted for visa support services, had collected fees without rendering services. On March 25, the FCCPC sent a formal complaint letter to TLS in line with due process—but rather than cooperate, TLS allegedly responded with violence.
Adeyinka said FCCPC operatives were manhandled, and matters escalated when TLS officials refused to accept a summons and later assaulted police officers accompanying the enforcement team.
“In accordance with Section 18(1)(f) of the FCCPC Act, the Executive Vice Chairman, Mr. Tunji Bello, authorized the immediate sealing of the company’s premises,” Adeyinka said.
The commission stated it had “reasonable grounds” to believe that TLS’s operations were harmful to consumers, and as a result, all activities at the company’s Abuja office are now suspended pending a full investigation.
The FCCPC has summoned TLS senior officers—including the country and centre managers—to appear before the Commission by 2:00 PM on Friday, June 20, 2025. Adeyinka warned of serious consequences if they fail to honour the summons.
“Under Section 33(3) of the FCCPC Act, refusal to comply with a summons without valid reason is a criminal offense that attracts up to three years imprisonment, a ₦20 million fine, or both,” she explained. “Obstructing an investigation is equally punishable under Section 33(4). TLS’s actions are in clear violation.”
She emphasized that the Commission is resolute in defending Nigerian consumers and urged affected individuals to come forward with evidence of service failure.
“This sealing should serve as a wake-up call to all service providers,” Adeyinka warned. “Consumer protection is not optional. It is the law.”
As investigations continue, the FCCPC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that Nigerians are not exploited under the guise of travel support services.
